Malaysian youths waving the Jalur Gemilang at the Malaysia Day celebration last night.
KOTA KINABALU: The State Government is committed to propel the economy and development of Sabah by concentrating on efforts to strengthen the financial position through good planning and management, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Shafie Apdal.
He said Sabah has attracted investors from all over the world since the new State Government took over the administration.
“These investors have expressed interest to invest in the state, particularly in strategic sectors,” said Shafie.
According to Shafie, Sabah has everything to become an economic powerhouse.
“Our main asset is the vast areas of fertile land for agriculture and plantation, rich natural resources, in addition to our natural beauty and diverse race and culture that have become an attraction for the tourism industry,” he said at the 55th national-level Malaysia Day celebration at Merdeka Padang here yesterday.
At the same time, he said the State Government is also committed to develop and produce knowledgeable, highly-skilled and innovative human capital.
“If all these plans go smoothly, God willing, Sabah will not only become one of the developed states, no one will be left behind as well,” he said.
Shafie also pointed out the imbalanced economic progress and social well-being between West and East Malaysia.
“With the new Federal Government, let this Malaysia Day be the beginning to renew the commitment we have agreed upon. Issues that have arisen should be reviewed so that we are equal in this country,” Shafie said.
He said Malaysia was formed on the basis of tolerance and mutual understanding.
“All requests and offers should be given due consideration. Decisions made have to be based on consensus. We should maintain this spirit and uphold the principle that every matter can be achieved through negotiations,” he said.
Shafie said the government ought to learn from past mistakes and make improvements for the benefit of the people.
On behalf of the State Government, Shafie also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, for his efforts and initiative to bring progress to all states, including Sabah.
He said Sabahans had high hopes to play a bigger role towards economic prosperity, political stability and well-being of Malaysia.
“To achieve this, Sabah requires more allocation for development. We fervently hope that under the new government, be it at the federal or state levels, more development and progress will be brought to Sabah. The State Government will continue to work with the Federal Government to safeguard the rights and interests of Malaysians in the State,” he reiterated.